Cumberland Valley News

Pennsylvania House Republicans are set to introduce a package of bills aimed at protecting critical state assets from unfriendly foreign entities, particularly China. The move comes in response to recent events, including the hacking of the Aliquippa Municipal Authority, which have raised concerns about the security of state infrastructure.

One of the proposed bills, put forth by Rep. Barb Gleim (R-Cumberland), seeks to restrict the purchase of agricultural land in Pennsylvania by "countries of concern" as designated by the federal government. This includes countries such as China, Russia, Belarus, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, and Syria. The legislation aims to prevent these countries, their political parties, and associated businesses from acquiring large portions of agricultural land, especially if it is located near sensitive areas or national defense assets.

Rep. Gleim emphasized the importance of safeguarding national security by not allowing foreign entities from countries of concern to have ownership of agricultural land. She also highlighted the need to protect American farmers and ensure a level playing field, stating, "Allowing countries of foreign concern and related political parties and business entities to purchase agricultural land in Pennsylvania creates a disadvantage for American farmers who may not have reciprocal rights in these foreign countries."

In response to the cyber threats faced by the state, Rep. Stephenie Scialabba (R-Butler) plans to introduce legislation establishing the Pennsylvania Cyber Security Task Force. Composed of representatives from various critical stakeholders, including the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Pennsylvania State Police, the task force will assist institutions and facilities with their cyber security needs. It will also require the implementation of security safeguards to protect against cyber intrusions.

Rep. Tim Bonner (R-Mercer/Butler) is also part of this legislative package and intends to introduce a bill that directs the Joint State Government Commission to review foreign purchases of infrastructure assets and adjacent land in the Commonwealth. The goal is to assess potential security implications to critical infrastructure and take necessary actions to address any concerns.

Rep. Bonner expressed his support for the proposed legislation, stating, "I am pleased to join with Rep. Gleim and Rep. Scialabba in sponsoring legislation to protect our farmlands, critical infrastructure, and utility systems from ownership by foreign interests hostile to the United States." He emphasized the importance of identifying and combatting cyber threats originating from foreign entities through the establishment of a dedicated cyber security task force.

These bills aim to enhance the state's ability to protect critical assets and infrastructure from foreign entities that pose a threat to national and state security. By restricting land purchases and addressing cyber security concerns, Pennsylvania House Republicans hope to ensure the safety and well-being of the Commonwealth.

For more information, please contact:

- Rep. Gleim: Tricia Lehman - tlehman@pahousegop.com

- Rep. Scialabba: Nate Temple - ntemple@pahousegop.com

- Rep. Bonner: Tim Craine - tcraine@pahousegop.com